BPCA has highlighted the impact of its structured onboarding approach after sharing the story of a new recruit who progressed from industry beginner to Level 2-qualified technician within months.
The Association has developed a comprehensive onboarding framework to help member companies introduce new starters to pest management in a consistent and supportive way. The programme blends online learning, practical field experience and assessment, with the aim of building confidence alongside competence.
Hinton Pest Control technician Richard Bradbury was among the first to complete the full all-inclusive programme. Supported by his employer, mentors and BPCA trainers, he worked through online modules, hands-on tasks and a mid-programme assessment before passing both his Level 2 Award in Rodent Management and Level 2 Award in Pest Management at the first attempt.
Richard said the support made a huge difference during his early months in the job.
“The amount of support I had through the onboarding process and from my team was unbeatable. Support from BPCA was excellent,” Richard said.
His learning diary included everything from carpet moth treatments to poultry-farm biosecurity, as well as the sort of early-career mishaps many technicians remember. A memorable run-in with European hornets, which ended in a sting to the face, served as a reminder to “never tap walls and always wear a bee suit”.
BPCA assessors reported that Richard demonstrated strong knowledge in legislation, pest biology and IPM principles, and praised his commitment to becoming a professional pest controller.
The onboarding framework is available in several formats to suit different company setups, ranging from a free framework-only option to fully managed programmes with training and qualification included.
BPCA said the aim is simple: to help employers develop confident, competent technicians who feel supported from day one.
More information about the onboarding options is available, by clicking here.
